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This December, I had the pleasure of stepping into the architectural marvel that is the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Nestled on Saadiyat Island, the museum’s striking dome—designed by Jean Nouvel—appears to float like a celestial canopy, inviting me to explore its treasures and then lose myself in the beauty, history of art and antiquity.
My visit focused on two distinct yet complementary exhibitions: the museum’s main collection and an enthralling showcase of Post-Impressionist art.
Walking through the main galleries, I was struck by the seamless narrative connecting civilisations and cultures. From ancient Mesopotamian sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces, the collection presents humanity’s shared artistic heritage with clarity and elegance. I came across a bust with its two fascinating faces. It is one of the oldest monumental statues in the history of humanity. Whether the pair of figures represents two ancestors or divinities, the statue reflects the beliefs that were held in the Neolithic village of Ain Ghazal in 6500 BCE. It stopped me in my tracks.
As I wandered to the Post-Impressionist exhibition, the mood shifted dramatically. Vibrant colours, bold brushstrokes, and evocative scenes filled the space, capturing a moment in history where art broke free from tradition. The exhibition featured iconic works by artists such as Paul Gauguin, Vincent van Gogh, and Georges Seurat. Each piece told a story of innovation, emotion, and a deep connection to the natural world. It reminded me of why I love what we do—offering collectors the chance to enjoy paintings that connect them to history, emotion, and the timeless beauty of the world around us. Examples of many of the artists we champion were to be found in the exhibition and I wonder how many more will join them in the future as the world recognises the genius of a wider group of post impressionist masters.
One painting that lingered with me was Van Gogh’s, The Siesta. Despite what its title suggests, the canvas is rife with movement. The hay field ripples with shimmering shades of gold, and the folds of the clothes of the snoozing farmers seem to rise and fall as they gently cloak their relaxed bodies.The Siesta is Van Gogh’s interpretation of an 1866 canvas by Jean-Francois Millet. However, where Millet’s version is honed with realist sensibilities, Van Gogh takes on the peaceful scene with feverish intensity. The work was painted between 1889 and 1890, during the time Van Gogh was interned at an asylum in the French commune of Saint-Remy-de-Provence. It is a potent example of the alchemy that preoccupied the Post-Impressionist painters – to take a scene and transform it with an almost mystical flair through unconventional techniques and colour choices. The expressive energy in his use of colour and texture brought the scene to life, making it feel as though the countryside of Provence had been transported to Abu Dhabi. It was fascinating to observe how these Post-Impressionists bridged the gap between the classical, modern, and the boldly avant-garde, echoing the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s own mission to unify cultures.
After a morning immersed in art, I took a moment to recharge with lunch at the waterfront restaurant. The serene setting offered stunning views of the glistening Arabian Gulf and, in the distance, the emerging silhouette of the new Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Even in its unfinished somewhat sci-fi inspired state, the Guggenheim promises to be a monumental addition to Saadiyat Island’s cultural district. Its futuristic angular design, by Frank Gehry, will contrast beautifully with the Louvre’s domed geometry, symbolising a dialogue between two architectural visions.
As I sipped on freshly brewed Arabic coffee, I reflected on the ambitious vision of Saadiyat Island. Sitting there, surrounded by architectural and artistic ingenuity, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for what the future holds for this extraordinary cultural hub.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi offers more than just a survey of art history—it’s a space where the past, present, and future converge. My visit left me inspired and thunderstruck, not only by the masterpieces on display but by the island's broader narrative of cultural collaboration and innovation. If you ever find yourself in Abu Dhabi, I would highly recommend one takes the time to explore this remarkable place and to enjoy it's breathtaking views. The peace I felt gave me space and serenity to learn more of the incredible story of the world through art, which to me, quite simply, made perfect sense.
Visit the Louvre, Abu Dhabi https://www.louvreabudhabi.ae/en
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